West Lafayette, IN, United States of America

Gerald W Thomas

This inventor holds 1 USPTO granted patent. Top assignee: Trw Limited. Active years: 1994.

IDiyas Innovation Intelligence. (2026). Inventor Profile: Gerald W Thomas. Retrieved from https://idiyas.com/inventor/gerald-w-thomas

Data source: USPTO (United States Patent and Trademark Office) public patent records. Weekly synchronization. How IDiyas builds this profile


% Patents Active = 100.0

Average Co-Inventor Count = 10.0

ph-index = 1

Forward Citations = 23(Granted Patents)


Company Filing History:


Years Active: 1994

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1 patent (USPTO):Explore Patents

Title: The Innovations of Gerald W. Thomas: Pioneering the Tilt-Telescope Steering Column

Introduction: Gerald W. Thomas, based in West Lafayette, IN, is an inventive mind known for his contributions to automotive technology. With a focus on enhancing user experience and safety, his innovation in steering column design represents a significant advancement in vehicle ergonomics.

Latest Patents: Thomas holds a noteworthy patent for a Tilt-Telescope Steering Column. This invention features a first steering column member that can move axially in relation to a second member. An input shaft, connected to the steering wheel, allows for pivotable movement. The design incorporates innovative locking mechanisms that provide an infinite number of axial and pivot positions. These features enhance accessibility and comfort for drivers, representing a significant improvement in steering column technology.

Career Highlights: Gerald W. Thomas has made impactful strides in the automotive sector during his career at TRW Limited. His work in steering column innovation has not only contributed to vehicle functionality but also improved safety for drivers and passengers alike. His patent showcases his dedication to advancing automotive designs.

Collaborations: Throughout his career, Thomas has collaborated with colleagues such as John A. Budzik, Jr. and Mark A. Cartwright. These collaborations have fostered an environment of creativity and knowledge sharing, leading to significant advancements in the products developed by TRW Limited.

Conclusion: Gerald W. Thomas stands out as an inventor whose work in steering technology exemplifies the spirit of innovation. His unique approach to design and functionality continues to serve as a testament to the ongoing advancements in automotive engineering. As his career progresses, it will be interesting to see what further innovations emerge from his inventive perspective.

Profile summary based on public USPTO records.
Data Sources: USPTO Patent Grant XML, Patent Center, EPO & CIPO • Normalized by IDiyas Innovation Graph. Methodology & provenance architecturePlease report any incorrect information to [email protected]
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